Internationalisation of Higher Education: the Case of Bahrain

Abstract

Internationalisation of higher education refers to the process of integrating an international, intercultural or global dimension into the purpose, functions, or delivery of post-secondary education (Knight, 2003). Internationalisation in Bahrain remains a field to be explored by scholars. This study addressed the issue of internationalisation in the context of Bahrain’s higher education. The study was set to explore the definitions and the approaches that Bahrain higher education institutions adopt towards internationalisation. The study also looked at the rationales driving internationalisation in these institutions. Another important issue addressed in this study is the factors and challenges facing higher education institutions in their efforts towards internationalising their institutions. The study is a qualitative study utilising a multi-case strategy. Three higher education institutions operating in Bahrain formed the main cases. The data for each case was obtained through interviews and document analysis. The results showed some variations and some similarities between the three cases. Some institutions looked at internationalisation as a set of activities which was also reflected in their approach. One institution looked at internationalisation as a process that should be integrated into the functions of the institution. All the three institutions showed a mix of academic, socio-cultural and economic rationales that drove internationalisation. The challenges and the factors varied from one institution to another. Most of the challenges came from regulations such as immigration and visa issues. Other challenges included funding and underdeveloped basic functions of higher education. One of the important findings of this study was that the Middle Eastern culture of Bahrain formed a positive factor towards internationalisation. The findings in the study should have significant implications to improve the internationalisation process in Bahrain.